Ferrari have announced that technical director James Allison has left the Formula 1 team following a three-year spell.
Team principal Maurizio Arrivabene recently played down rumours of an exit for Allison.
He was also forced to reject suggestions that driver Sebastian Vettel intends to walk away due to his dislike of the team "atmosphere".
Today, though, Ferrari announced via their official website that Allison has stepped down - a decision that they described as mutual.
Allison, who joined the Italian team in 2013, helped Ferrari take three wins last season following a winless 2014 campaign and agreed a contract extension until 2018.
This year, though, they have not yet won a race due to the dominance of Mercedes, and they are also battling Red Bull for a spot on the podium.
"During the years I spent at Ferrari, at two different stages and covering different roles, I could get to know and appreciate the value of the team and of the people, women and men, which are part of it," said Allison. "I want to thank them all for the great professional and human experience we shared. I wish everybody a happy future with lots of success."
Arrivabene added: "The team would like to thank James for his commitment and sacrifice during the time spent together, and wishes him success and serenity for his future endeavours."
Mattia Binotto has been named as Allison's replacement.
Danielle Joynson
